Although dark rooms can feel cozy and inviting, especially during the cold days of winter, as temperatures slowly warm and days get longer, light-lacking rooms can take on a constricting feel. Thankfully, Wallauer's Design Center is helping homeowners turn otherwise dark, drab rooms into bright, cheery living areas with these simple tips.

"White is the perfect canvas for any room," said Kim Scappaticci, design director at Wallauer’s Design Center. "While most whites cast a huge color of gray, green, blue or can look too sterile, Benjamin Moore's Simple White is a warm true white that softens the look."

Color matters:
As a general rule, a room's color should reflect the amount of natural light it receives. Lighter colors reflect more light throughout the room, while darker colors absorb it. Rooms with plenty of windows can be painted in a darker hue, while those with little or no natural light should be painted in brighter colors.

Don't forget the ceiling:
Although painting a ceiling a dark color can add an unexpected pop, in small, light-restricted spaces a white ceiling works best. Adding recessed lighting fixtures, also know as "can lights," can also increase the sense of openness in a smaller room.

Optical illusions:
If a room only has one window, hang a floor to ceiling mirror across from the window to trick your eyes. The mirror will give the impression of a second window and double the amount of light.

Lose the curtains:
Although a set of dark, heavy curtains are perfect for sleeping late on weekends, when not in use they can create an overbearing ambiance. Instead, opt for translucent blinds to allow some sunlight in, or plantation shutters, which provide effective yet stylish protection.

"Light is the essence of happiness," said Scappaticci. "Think how you feel on a dark rainy day verses a bright sunny day."